Explore Provence by gravel bike - the awesome Alpilles and majestic Mont Ventoux!
Provence is the perfect playground for anyone who loves riding gravel and/or just getting out there… with forest tracks and rolling ridgeline trails to ride you’ll find an incredibly diverse landscape thats just waiting to be explored. So if you’re on the hunt for a physical challenge or maybe a more zen contemplative experience, the gravel to ride around Mont Ventoux and in the Alpilles is definitely worth a visit.
Why choose Provence for a gravel trip?
Whether you ride regularly and fancy a change of scene, or are looking for something new to try in a beautiful setting, Provence has you covered:
Diverse landscapes - of pine forests, hidden valleys, wild plateaus, lavender fields and a perfumed air like no other.
An ideal climate - from early spring to late autumn, cyclists are treated to perfect riding temperatures.
Varied tracks and trails - from smooth undulating tracks to technical trails, there’s something for everyone.
A unique cultural heritage - every day is a chance to explore another quaint authentic village with the accompanying local delicacies. Experience the real pride in local cuisine that only the French know how to do!
Mont Ventoux on gravel
Well known for the mythical road climbs tackled by many a cyclist to the summit of the mighty mountain, Mont Ventoux hides a multitude of gravel trails on its flanks that make for an awesome alternative route to the top! Descend on forest tracks and wild trails for a fun and fast ride through the beautiful pine and beech forests that surround the peak.
Stunning gravel trails
One of the best things about gravel is the ability you have to get off the beaten track and away from the road, without sacrificing the feel of your ride. Its not about staring at your handlebars or fixating on the road ahead - lift your eyes to the deer and wild boar that are in the forests around you and to the eagles above you. Take the time to breathe in the sweet scent of pine and beech trees in the Provencal air, and you might spot even the most shy creatures.
As you climb the landscape changes from forest to the famous lunar landscape of the summit, framed against the clear blue sky thats so often present. If you’re lucky you’ll be able to see as far as the Med from the top, as well as enjoying beautiful vistas across the Rhone valley and the Cévennes mountains.
At first sight Mont Ventoux can seem intimidating, but you’ll soon lose yourself in the gravel journey towards the top, with friendly gradients and plenty of time to enjoy the landscapes and nature you travel through. If you’re still unsure, theres always the option of an electric gravel bike to give you that helping hand when you need it!
A fun and flowing descent
What goes up must come down, and if there was ever a descent that seems to have been designed specifically to be confidence building its what you’ll find on Mont Ventoux, as well as a lot of fun!
Rather than following the busy road we take blissfully quiet trails that wind down the mountain, from the high alpine meadows to the valleys below, through fields of lavender and thyme surrounding typical Provençal villages. Far from cars and the many many road cyclists, you’ll be able to relax and go with the flow!
The Climate
Mont Ventoux has a unique climate thanks to its altitude of 1909m at the summit.
Springtime (March to June) - the perfect time to ride with ideal riding temperatures of 15-25°C down in the valley but fresh air up at the top. Bring warm layers for descending if you calm early season!
Summer (July/August) - Days can be very hot down at valley level (up to 35°C!) but you’ll always find some fresh air at the summit. The mistral wind off the Med can be extremely strong - you’ve been warned!
Autumn (September to November) - one of the best times to visit, with ideal riding temperatures and exceptional autumnal colours.
Winter (December to February) - The summit will be snow-covered (and the ski lifts might be running!) but the surrounding plains and valleys are still blessed with friendly riding temperatures.
Join GravelUp for an “everything included” gravel trip taking in some of the best trails of the region. Our guides know the area like the backs of their hands so you’ll be in good hands, literally!
We have 2 formats for you to choose from - 3 days riding from our Basecamp hotel in Sault or 5 days of point to point riding around the region.
The Alpilles - the Epitome of Provence
Whilst not quite as high as Ventoux, the Alpilles arguably pack even more punch, with spectacular limestone cliffs breaking out of fragrant forests… both of which make for great gravel routes to explore soaking up the valley atmosphere and panoramic ridge line trails.
Pretty as a picture
In the Alpilles you’ll find the perfect mix of raw nature and Provençal life, with charming stone villages dotted throughout the landscape. Man’s touch is centuries old here, with generations old vineyards and olive groves bordered by cypress trees and white chalky tracks under impressive cliffs and raw heathland. Ideal gravel riding!
The many many kms of smooth Strade Bianchi style trails connected by practically deserted back roads in surprisingly good repair is a highlight of the region - along with the knowledge that the climbs are never that long and almost always lead to a fun and flowing descent. All with a beautiful backdrop of the ochre tiled rooftops of Maussane and Saint-Remy-en-Provence blending in to the surrounding landscape.
An immersion in all things Provençal
The Alpilles have a lot more going for them than just great riding - you’ll be plunged into the heart of Provençal life right from the start. Every village hides a treasure, from colourful local markets with plenty of delicacies like Fougasse to try, or a shaded village square where the locals are playing pétanque overlooked by an old chapel perched o the hillside above…
It would be remiss not to mention Baux-de-Provence here - a stunning medieval village that overlooks the surrounding valleys. Step back in time wandering the cobbled alleyways and admire the impressive chateau, all surrounded by olive groves and vineyards of course!
The Climate
The Alpilles are blessed by a typically Mediterranean climate:
Springtime (March to June) - the perfect time to visit with ideal riding temperatures of 15-25°C and the spring flowers in full bloom - stunning!
Summer (July/August) - Days can be very hot up in the mid 30s every day so its best to ride early in the morning or from late afternoon onwards.
Autumn (September to November) - one of the best times to visit, with ideal riding temperatures and a beautiful soft autumnal light.
Winter (December to February) - it rarely gets too cold for riding, with daytime temperatures of 5-15°C but theres often the dreaded Mistral wind blowing which can make for a challenging ride!
Set off on an adventure with us here at GravelUp - we have organised group trips exploring the best the region has to offer. Our guides are local experts, and will take you on some of awesome trails as well as unlocking some of the many treasures of the area.
One format is available - 3 days riding from our Basecamp hotel in Mouriès. Find out more!
Our gravel trips in Provence
Here at GravelUp we offer gravel bike trips with everything included, so you can explore the best of the Ventoux and Alpilles regions with no hassle or stress. Our trips include:
An expert guide - all our guides are both passionate and experienced, and know the area like the back of their hands.
Authentic accommodation - small hotels and guest houses that we’ve chosen extremely carefully for their charm and comfort.
Accessible routes - our routes can be adapted as needed, for both traditional and electric bikes.
Logistics - feedstops, mechanical assistance, kit transport… we take care of everything.
Journal
Comment bien récupérer après une sortie vélo ?
After a long gravel ride, it’s tempting to just hop off the bike, hit the shower, and call it a day. But smart recovery is what allows you to keep riding day after day—without burning out or breaking down. Hydration, nutrition, stretching, sleep: here are the simple but essential steps to help you bounce back strong. Because riding is great—but riding longer and feeling good? Even better.
Riding into Spring!
Grab your gravel bike, the good weather is not far away! The days are getting longer which, coupled with the warm weather we’ve been having of late, means it's time to get planning your next adventure. And what better adventure to have than exploring some of Europe’s best gravel trails with us?
